Archive for September, 2009

This was the 5th Garden Challenge, by residents and friends of the Bolney Meadow Estate. They have been reclaiming some gardens behind the block of flats in Richborne Terrace that have been overgrown for 20 years.

Mayor with gardners from Bolney Meadow Estate

Following their fantastic work they were recently awarded a London in Bloom certificate of merit for their work.

Mayor and Mayoress with the young gardeners for Bolney Meadow

It was fantastic to see people of all ages coming together to work on this project, especially the young people who were enthusiastically helping out and had grown some huge sunflowers which now tower over the back of the garden.

Lambeth Libraries annual borough wide presentation followed this years reading challenge and presented certificates to 50 children who have participated in the Nation Reading Campaign, Quest Seekers, which encourages children to read up to 6 books.

The Lambeth Archives annual open day included this year a exhibition entitled ‘Lambeth in Art and Art in Lambeth’ with photos and pictures of landmarks around Lambeth and depicting historical events such as the Brixton Riots.

Mayor and Mayoress of Lambeth visiting the Clapham Society stand

The day included a programme of talks and film screenings, children’s activities, bookstalls and sociey stands including the Clapham Society.

The Alternative Village Fete was held at the National Theatre as part of the free outdoor festival, Watch This Space. This year the fete, backed by Camberwell-based live art company, Home Live, was been extended across the whole weekend of the Watch This Space closing weekend.

Mayor of Lambeth opening the Alternative Village Fete

I was there to open the the event which was already busy with families coming out to enjoy the day with a variety of stalls designed to inspire and involve people in arts and crafts.

Today (Friday September 25 2009) The South London Press carried my story of how as I child living in an abusive home I attempted to kill myself.

Independent newspaper South London Press

During this week I have spoken at events that dealt with the issue of Domestic Abuse and whilst sharing my own story has been difficult I have been determined to do what I can to help raise awareness of the issue. I was surprised by how I felt seeing my story in print today, something that often feels very distance was made even more real – however reliving these memories is a small price to pay in attempting to help those still living in and suffering from domestic abuse.

In the paper I tell of how as a small boy I attempted to take my life in a desperate attempt to escape my abuser. I talk of how I received no help or support and that in fact the situation went on to get worse.

If you are the victim of abuse please call the national domestic violence 24-hour helpline on 0800 2000 247 for advice or contact Lambeth Womens Aid.

As part of a series of events across the borough this week that aimed to raise awareness of Domestic Violence, this event forcused on the impact this has on members of the LGBT community.

Mayor with panel members at the LGBT Domestic Violence Awareness event

The event included past victims talking about their experience and voluntary groups and authorities discussed how they are working to support people who come forward and are looking for help.

I spoke of the importance of individuals to support their friends and family members who experience domestic abuse and how I hoped that by talking about this issue more openly we can give strength to the victims and help them feel more able to seek help.